BUNKER UP: The ‘billionaire bunkers’ with recognition software, hidden passageways and enough provisions to sustain families for three generations

Wealthy families across the country are shelling out millions to protect their loved ones from intruders, natural disasters or the apocalypse as home security goes increasingly sci-fi.

Companies that provide concerned homeowners with futuristic gadgets – and a priceless peace of mind – have revealed the growing demand of costly bunkers, passageways, panic rooms and recognition software.

Chris Pollack – president of Pollack+Partners, a design and construction adviser in Purchase, New York – told Forbes that, while security has always been important for the wealthiest clients, the spending on home security has noticeably grown in the past five years.

And the options available on the market are like something from a Bond film.

Former Israeli major general Aharon Ze’evi-Farkash has spent three years creating software that merges facial, voice and behavioral recognition technology, allowing the system can recognize the approaching person – so the owner has no need for a house key.

‘It transforms you into the key for your building in under two seconds,’ he told Forbes.

Another option comes from Creative Home Engineering, which is based in Gilbert, Arizona. The firm provides secret passageways by hiding the entrance in custom-made bookcases, wardrobes or walls.

American Saferoom Door Company has been making safe rooms for homeowners, companies and international organizations like the United Nations for 30 years. They sell between 50 and 65 custom-made doors a year, starting at $20,000 each.